Eagle-eyed students
rescue exotic bird

Eagle-eyed students came to the rescue of a rare exotic bird discovered lying on the pavement two weeks ago.

The colourful bird, a Zebra Finch, native to central Australia, was found weak and unable to fly on the pavement outside the Priory Square building of the University of Brighton’s Hastings campus on the morning of Friday, January 9.

Students alerted university staff and marketing officer Sara Humphrey - who volunteers with a local wildlife rescue - collected the bird and is taking care of it at her home until the owner can be found.

Sara said: “The bird was very weak and suffering from the cold weather but after being fed and watered it soon recovered.

“We have issued an appeal for the owner through our Facebook and @Hastingsinfo Twitter accounts (or call 01273 644648) but so far no-one has come forward.”

The Zebra Finch birds, which can live up to five years, originate in Australia but are also found in Indonesia and East Timor. They are described as being friendly and sociable and like being around their own species. If kept in a cage they need daily exercise and like to climb and play.

Sara says she hopes the bird’s owner will be found.“I’m looking after the bird temporarily but would very much like to reunite him with his owner. If he is not claimed we will work with the local rescue centre, Raystede, to find him a new home and some new friends – he’s very sociable and needs some company.”